When it comes to breathtaking scenery the city of Edinburgh has it all.
From its stunning architecture to its picturesque setting there is no shortage of things to see and do in this Scottish gem.
Here are just 10 of the most stunning sights to see in Edinburgh:
1.
Edinburgh Castle
No visit to Edinburgh would be complete without a stop at Edinburgh Castle.
This iconic fortress has been a major part of the city’s history for centuries and is now one of its most popular tourist attractions.
Perched atop an extinct volcano the castle offers stunning views of the city below.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and corridors including the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny or take in a performance at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
2.
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the main street in Edinburgh’s Old Town and is home to some of the city’s most important historical landmarks.
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace the Royal Mile is lined with imposing buildings including the Scottish Parliament and the Edinburgh City Chambers.
Along the way visitors can enjoy street performers buskers and the many shops and restaurants that line the street.
3.
Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and is located at the end of the Royal Mile.
The palace is surrounded by Holyrood Park which offers stunning views of Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands beyond.
Visitors can take a tour of the palace itself which is full of fascinating history or explore the extensive grounds which include the ruins of a 12th-century abbey.
4.
The Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery is one of Edinburgh’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s easy to see why.
Housed in a stunning neoclassical building the gallery houses an impressive collection of Scottish and international art from the Renaissance to the present day.
Visitors can explore the many galleries at their own pace or take part in one of the regular guided tours.
5.
The Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is a Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to the Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott.
Standing at over 200 feet tall the monument offers stunning views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can climb the monument’s 287 steps to the top or simply enjoy the view from the ground.
6.
The Edinburgh Zoo
The Edinburgh Zoo is home to over 1000 animals including pandas tigers and lions.
The zoo is located just outside the city center and is easily accessible by bus or tram.
Visitors can explore the zoo at their own pace or take part in one of the many guided tours and talks.
7.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and is located at the end of the Royal Mile.
The palace is surrounded by Holyrood Park which offers stunning views of Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands beyond.
Visitors can take a tour of the palace itself which is full of fascinating history or explore the extensive grounds which include the ruins of a 12th-century abbey.
8.
The National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions and it’s easy to see why.
Housed in a stunning neo-gothic building the museum houses an impressive collection of Scottish and international art from the Renaissance to the present day.
Visitors can explore the many galleries at their own pace or take part in one of the regular guided tours.
9.
The Greyfriars Kirkyard
The Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic cemetery in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures including the Scottish philosopher David Hume and the poet Robert Burns.
Visitors can explore the cemetery at their own pace or take part in one of the many guided tours.
10.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia is a floating palace and the former royal yacht of the British monarch.
The yacht is now permanently moored in Edinburgh and open to the public.
Visitors can explore the vessel at their own pace or take part in one of the many guided tours.